History of Peridots

Information about the History of PeridotsDiscover some fascinating information about the History of Peridots

Facts and Information about the History of Peridots

History of Peridots

Use of Peridots in jewelry

History of Peridots

The History of Peridots - What are Peridots?What exactly are Peridots? The word Peridot is derived from the Greek word "faridat " which means "gem". The peridot (pronounced pear-a-doe) is a pale green variety of chrysolite and used as a gem stone. Peridots are one of the few gemstones that come in only one color. The depth of green depends on how much iron is contained in the crystal structure. Peridots are often referred to as "poor man's emerald". In ancient times the Peridot was popularly known as chrysolite. It is one of the softest of the hard stones, being easily scratched by quartz. The stones are found in Egypt, Sri Lanka and Brazil, and specimens have been found in meteorites and the lava of Vesuvius. During the Middle Ages peridots were worn for foresight with regard to future events, and for Divine inspiration and eloquence. At one time Peridots were considered of more value than the diamond.

The History of Peridots - the Ancient EgyptiansThe Peridot is the National gem of Egypt and their love of this gemstone dates back to the Ancient Egyptians who called the Peridot “the gem of the sun.” The Ancient Egyptians discovered the presence of peridots on Topazo Island (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea. The island was closely guarded by the ancient Egyptians who mined peridots in order that they could be given to the Pharaoh. Peridots were used by the Pharaohs and other ancient Egyptians as amulets to ward off evil. They were also included in the fabulous tombs of the ancient Egyptians who believed that they could take their treasures with them into the afterlife.

The History of Peridots - the RomansPeridots have been found in meteorites and the lava of Mount Vesuvius inn Italy and this gemstone was well known to the ancient Romans. The Romans wore them for protection from enchantment and against melancholy and illusion. It was popular for peridots to be set in gold (gold being the metal of the Sun) to dispel the vague terrors of the night.

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